The Importance of Understanding Cold Laser Therapy for Dogs

What if we told you there was a way to cure your dog’s joint discomfort, arthritis, tendon and ligament injuries, surgical wounds, and other conditions they might enjoy? This method is painless, non-invasive, drug-free, and relatively inexpensive. Cold laser therapy is here to help. Cold laser therapy for animals is still considered “fringe” in the United States, but it is gaining popularity as more veterinarians report positive results. As CLT helps with inflammation, pain management (chronic and acute), and healing, it may be just what your dog needs.

How does CLT function?

The abbreviation “LASER” refers to Light Amplification Stimulated Emission of Radiation. Many think of lasers only in terms of the burning beams seen in movies or the surgical lasers used to cut through flesh. Having a shorter wavelength than traditional lasers, CLT lasers can be used for therapeutic purposes.

 

Photons, or light energy, are emitted by the laser and absorbed by the tissue surrounding the afflicted area(s) (in dogs and humans). This process is known as “photobiomodulation” and occurs when the photons enter the cell and affect the mitochondria. ATP, the fuel needed to boost the activity of injured cells and speed up their regeneration, is produced by photobiomodulation. This implies less discomfort for your dog and a speedier recovery time after the visit to dog and exotic veterinarians.

What are the advantages of CLT?

Laser therapy for dogs has a wide range of benefits. Laser therapy is effective, convenient, and cost-efficient. These treatments are safe, effective, and drug-free and can be used in tandem with other methods. Because of the relaxing and comforting effects, many pets prefer treatments.

 

Inflammation, pain, and range of motion are all improved by laser therapy, and the healing process is sped up. Edema due to injury or infection is reduced, tendon, cartilage, nerve, and bone repair are stimulated, and collagen production is aided.

 

Whether it’s for short-term use in cases like wounds or ear infections or chronic conditions like arthritis, CLT is a versatile tool. It’s helpful because some geriatric pets can’t handle pain medication. It can be used with pharmaceuticals and alternative therapies to increase their efficacy.

Will CLT cause pain in my dog?

Consider trying laser therapy for your dog’s comfort, which causes no discomfort. Many new puppies find it so calming they end up sleeping through it. Very few, if any, negative consequences have been linked to CLT. Most pets do not change their behavior, despite the positive effects many owners report, such as increased energy and mobility.

When can I expect to see results?

Usually, when advising clients about their laser therapy sessions, I tell them that they shouldn’t expect a miraculous overnight change. While a full recovery may take several sessions, patients typically report symptom improvement within 12 hours. After the second week of treatment, you should see significant results. Visit this link to learn more on emergency treatments.

Conclusion

Laser therapy is a risk-free therapeutic option when precise parameters and time frames are applied. Higher-powered units provide a greater risk of causing thermal injury if they are handled improperly. In addition, laser beams directed at the eye might permanently damage the retina. Therefore, all clients and veterinary workers must wear safety glasses throughout treatment.